Working With Your Designer

Interior designed by Sharon McCormick of Fairchild House Interiors Durham Connecticut Working with an interior designer involves some give and take. You will share ideas, and the designer will contribute insights and advice based on his or her talents, knowledge and experience. You will have many details to consider and many decisions to make. Your concept may grow and change as you undergo this process.

The key to a successful project outcome is good communication. The more direct and specific you are, the easier it will be for the designer to successfully meet your needs and expectations. Never hesitate to ask questions about any aspect of the project.

Before authorizing the designer to begin work, take time to discuss fees, as well as other charges or expenses you may incur. Ask for a cost estimate that should specify the scope of work and the type of fee structure the designer uses.

To avoid disappointment or surprises, follow these guidelines:

Minimize changes to your plan. Each part of the design will affect the whole. Changes or special requests can require any number of adjustments that will add time and expense to your project.

Consider carefully and make notes before you call your designer. Repeated calls are inefficient, expensive and can slow down progress.

Stay flexible. Decide beforehand where you are willing to compromise and where you are not.

Avoid open-ended requests. Tell the designer up front what you are willing to pay in total for a particular item or service.